Problems with Teeth and Gums

Adult teeth are important. They must last a lifetime.

Many adults have problems with their teeth and gums. For example, they have cavities or gum disease.

Cavities
A cavity is a hole in a tooth. It starts small. You often cannot see or feel it. But a cavity gets bigger and bigger. Your tooth might be a greyish colour. It might hurt.

Gum Disease
Many adults have gum disease. Here are some signs of gum disease:
1. Your gums are red and puffy
2. Your gums bleed when you brush your teeth or when you sleep.
Gum disease can be very serious. Your teeth might become loose. The dentist might have to pull your teeth. You might need dentures (false teeth).

Background Information

How much time do you spend each day cleaning your teeth? What kind of problems can you get if you don't clean your teeth? Talk about the signs of gum disease.

Questions

1. Why do you think teeth are important?

2. What is a cavity?

3. Why do you think people get cavities?

4. Why might a cavity hurt?

5. What are the signs of gum disease?

6. What is the opposite of puffy?

7. What can happen to your teeth?

8. Use the word serious in a sentence.

9. What happens if a dentist has to pull your teeth?

10. Do you think it would be better to take care of your teeth or get false teeth? Why?